Ambitious Mathare United defender hopeful of Harambee Stars debut next month
Reading Time: 2min | Sun. 22.09.24. | 09:08
Despite being inexperienced, Mukok believes that he has what it takes to make his Harambee Stars debut next month
Mathare United centre-back Daniel Mukok is daring to dream the impossible ahead of the October FIFA international break that will see Harambee Stars return to action against five-time African champions Cameroon.
Despite being new to the Kenyan top flight and inexperienced in international football, the left-footed central defender bears sky-high hopes of partnering, his idol, Joseph Okumu in two encounters against the Indomitable Lions.
Mukok has been, arguably, the best player at Mathare, in the current season, courtesy of the calm and composure demonstrated while anchoring the defence and his ability to play from the back comfortably.
The young centre back, says his ambition to play alongside Okumu in the national team remains alive despite Mathare's poor start in the season.
He insists that there is sufficient time to put in performances that will catch the attention of coach Engin Firat heading to the October break.
"I am working hard to secure a call up to the national team in the October break. My prayer is to play alongside my role model and mentor Okumu," he told Mozzart Sport after their 1-1 draw against Sofapaka on Saturday.
Okumu, who skippered Stars in the past two matches against; Zimbabwe and Namibia following the absence of Michael Olunga, partnered Gor Mahia's Sylvester Owino at the heart of the defence.
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The former Mombasa Elite defender, in the meanwhile believes that Mathare will overcome the slow start and finish inside the top four bracket.
The Slum Boys are still winless in the season having shared points twice against; Sofapaka and Kakamega Homeboyz and lost to AFC Leopards.
"We are improving each week and the confidence levels ain the team are shooting up as well. We have the potential to finish in the top four," he added.
